Crash Cymbals | page 10

A crash cymbal adds impact, entry and energy to the groove. It is used in fills, choruses, phrase endings or as a short burst of colour in a dynamic part. If you need cymbals for clear accents, crash is one of the first types to consider.

What a crash cymbal is for

When choosing, follow the attack speed, decay length and how it fits with your hi-hat and ride. A thinner crash often opens more easily with a lighter stroke, while a stronger and heavier model can cut through a loud band. Also decide whether you want a clean bright tone or a dirtier, rougher colour.

A crash cymbal does not replace a ride cymbal for steady patterns or a china cymbal for a specific trashy effect. In a small kit, when you need one more universal piece, also compare crash-ride cymbals.